In the spring of 2022, Alverno College officially opened its new nursing education center in Mesa, Ariz., and two years later, the first cohort of nurses graduated from the Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing (DEMSN) program.
“We are so very proud of this incredibly resilient group of people,” says Linda Shanta, PhD, director of the DEMSN program in Mesa. “This group not only succeeded but exceeded all expectations through their community and professional engagement. We know our nursing profession is in great hands with these emerging leaders.”
In all, 18 students completed the program and were pinned on May 9. "I'm feeling incredibly prepared and thrilled to embark on my journey as a registered nurse, especially aiming to specialize in pediatric intensive care,” says Raymond Sim ’24. “I can't wait to dive in and make a positive impact!"